“Al Die Willen te Kaap’ren Varen“ - Dutch Privateers’ Song [Lyrics + Translation]

Also known simply as “Kaap’ren Varen“ or “Mannen Met Baarden“, this Dutch folk song reinforces that true privateers should be real men, who know how to get things done and are not afraid of death. The exact age of this song is unknown; it was first referenced in 1856, though there are other versions dating centuries back. This (albeit more modern) version was recorded by Ancora in 2013. The first line means literally “sail to hijack“, meaning privateering or commission sailing (privately owned ships who are hired by a government for use in war). You can join my discord server here: In the 16th century, the Low Countries were under the authority of the Spanish-Habsburg Empire. Between 1568 and 1648, they sought less taxation, more self-government, and religious tolerance from Spain; a struggle that transformed into a war of independence that became known as the Eighty Years’ War. Placing himself at the head of the revolt, W